AIMS Research, Chennai - 600 018.

Directorate of Environment, GTN

Environment Profile for Ramanathapuram District

Chapter

1
1.0 The Context
The Department of Environment (DoE) is the nodal department for dealing with
environmental management of the State. The State has been endowed with multitude of
natural resources, judicious management of which will ensure sustainable development in all
sectors. Effective resources management calls for an in-depth assessment of their existing
conditions and trends. A cursory evaluation of the present status of our environment and
natural resources including land, soil, water & air, and the life support systems like forests,
rivers & coastal areas, indicates that the health of such systems is threatened by serious
levels of degradation. Though different Government Departments / Agencies are
responsible for management of resources under their jurisdiction, information relating to the
individual sector lie fragmented.

To manage the environment in a holistic manner and to develop the environment friendly
sustainable development perspective, it becomes necessary to identify the gaps in the
present management of resource bases. Such intervention would be realistic when data
collected from the primary/secondary sources, compiled and presented in the form of district
environment profiles provide a strong database. Thus the AIMS Research (A Joint Venture of
TCW/ICICI, IDBI and ICICI)– one of the country’s leading Consultancy and research
organisation has been engaged in the preparation of such report. This report will form the
basis for developing Environmental Management Plans at district level and it will spell
out specific action programmes to be implemented by local / state institutions. This report
provides a brief account of the manner in which the District has been prepared and
presented. To achieve certain degree of uniformity in the presentation of environmental data
in the districts, it is considered necessary that certain standardised formats are adopted for
collection and presentation of the relevant data besides interpretations of the data thus

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AIMS Research, Chennai - 600 018. Directorate of Environment, GTN

collected. Accordingly the data compiled in the prescribed formats have been synthesised
and presented in the following chapters.

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Chapter

2
2.0 Background
This district was carved out in 1910 AD, by the British out of portions from Madurai and
Tirunelveli districts. The district was named as Ramanathapuram after the name of the
important Zamindari town, Ramanathapuram. According to a legend, Lord
Ramanathaswamy, the presiding deity of the temple of Rameswaram is said to have
directed his faithful servant, Guha to build a town near the Sethu (Adam’s bridge). The
town was called "Mugavainagaram". The town then appears to have been very near the
sea. This town was later known as Ramanathapuram. Its association with the name of
Rama and its proximity to the Sethu would justify the town being considered a very
ancient one. During the British period, this district was called ‘Ramnad' and this name
continued to for some time even after Independence. Later, the district was renamed as
Ramanathapuram to be in conformity with the state language. In the year 1985 the
district of Ramanathapuram trifurcated forming three separate districts i.e.
Ramanathapuram, Sivagangai and Kamarajar vide State Government Notification G.O.
Ms. 347 dated 8-3-85.
Languages and Religion: Main languages spoken in the district are Tamil and Telugu.
Fairs and Festivals: Important fairs and festivals organised in different parts of the
district are Soi Swarnamar Eswarar Ani Brahmothsavam car festival, Arulandiyar
festival, Adi Uthireswarar Vaigasi Visagam, Sri Muthu Mariamman Koil festival, Panguni
festival [Amman Koil Uthsavam], Sivarathiri, Mara Mayanar Guru Pooja, Magha Nunbu
Uthsavam, Vasanthothsavam, Adi Uthsavam in Naga Nathar Koil, Vaikasi Uthsavam, Adi
Amavasai festival, Thai Amavasai festival, Thruvathirai festival, Masi Amavasai
Samharam, Muppala Pooja, Vaikasi Visakham (Lord Subrahmanya), Illuppaswamy
festival, Thirukkaludiar festival, Muthalamman festival, and Santhanakoodu festival.
2.1 History
In the early centuries, Ramanathapuram district formed part of Pandya Kingdom. Its
history is closely linked with the Pandya Kingdom till the end of the 15th century. The
Pandya Kings ruled over the territories, which comprised Madurai, Ramanathapuram and
Tirunelveli. For a brief period, this area was also under the Chola Kings when Rajendra
Chola brought it under his authority in 1063 AD Ramanathapuram territory was also
under the Muslim Empire till 1365 AD With the help of the Vijayanagar King, this territory
was brought again under the rule of Pandya by Parakaram Pandya Deva. By about 1520
AD, the Nayaks of Vijayanagar took over this territory under their control from the
Pandya Dynasty. For about two centuries, Nayak Kings ruled Ramanathapuram territory
from Madurai. During the Nayaks rule, the marava chieftains-Sethupathis who were
lords under the Pandya Kings reigned over this part in 17th century. In 1710 AD, due to
family disputes over succession resulted in the division of Ramanathapuram. In 1730
AD, with the help of the King of Thanjavur, one of the chieftains deposed the Sethupathi
and became the Raja of Sivagangai.

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The Nayak rulers of Madurai became weak by this time. With the downfall of the Nayak
rulers, the local chieftains Palayakarars became independent. Prominent among them
was the Sethupathy of Ramanathapuram and the Raja of Sivagangai. The history of
Ramanathapuram is thus closely linked with the history of these two palayams in the
later years. After this, Ramanathapuram fell into the hands of Chanda Sahib of Carnatic
in 1731 AD In 1741 AD, the area came under the control of the Mahrattas and then
under the Nizam in 1744 AD Nawab's rule was not acknowledged by these chieftains.
The middle of 18th century, they declared the adopted son of Queen Meenakshi, the last
Nayak ruler, as the King of Pandya Mandalam against the Nawabs. At this time, the
throne of Carnatic had two rival claimants - Chanda Sahib and Mohamed Ali and this
district was a part of the Carnatac. The Europeans - the French and the British supported
Chanda Sahib and Mohamed Ali respectively which resulted in a series of conflicts in the
southern part of the continent. The two Chieftains supported Chanda Sahib in his
conflict with Mohamed Ali. In 1773 AD, General Smith subdued them and brought
them under the authority of the British.
The Sethupathy of Ramanathapuram lost his personal freedom. In 1792 when
Muthuramalinga Sethupathy, who was paying a sum of Rs.220000 as the tribute to the
British to prove his loyalty, the British deposed him and took control of the administration
of Ramanathapuram in 1795 AD It was converted into a Zamindari in 1803 AD and
Mangaleswari Nachiyar was made a Zamindar. During these periods, the ruler of
Sivagangai, Muthur Vadugunathar, also revolted against the British. In his efforts he
was ably assisted by the Marudu Brothers-Periya Marudu and Chinna Marudu. Muthu
Vadugunathar lost his life in the revolt. After his death, the queen passed on the
sovereignty to Marudu Brothers who ruled Sivagangai peacefully and devotedly on
payment of regular revenue to the East India Company. In 1801 AD, the Marudu
brothers of Sivagangai revolted against the British in collaboration with Kattabomman
of Panchalamkurichi. In 1801 AD, Colonel Agnew captured the Marudu brothers in
Kalayarkoil on 1st October 1801 and hanged them. The Company installed Gowri
Vallabah Periya Udaya Thevar as Zamindar of Sivagangai. The British who earlier were
supporters of the Nawabs finally annexed the country. The Nawab became
powerless and handed over the administration of Ramanathapuram even as early as
1781. With the fall of Tippu Sultan, the British took full control and the Nawab of
Carnatic was pensioned. In 1792 AD, a British collector was appointed to
administer the territory. Ramanathapuram and Sivagangai continued to be Zamins
till the system of Zamindari was abolished in 1948 AD after India attained
Independence.
2.2 Geographical Location of the District
Ramanathapuram is one of the coastal districts of Tamilnadu having a seacoast
extending to nearly 260 kms. It is bounded on the north by Sivagangai and
Pudukottai districts, on the east and south by the Bay of Bengal, and on the west by
Thoothukudi and Kamarajar districts. The district headquarters is located at
Ramanathapuram. The district lies between 90 09’ and 90 98’ north latitude and 780 23’
and 790 45’ east longitude. The general geographical information of the district is simple
and flatted. Vaigai River and Gundar River are flowing in the district and they will be dry
during the summer season. The total geographical area of the district is 3889.62 sq.km.
The details of the name of the taluks and area have shown in the following Table.

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S.No. Names of Taluks Area in Sq.Km.

1 Ramanathapuram 819.83
2 Rameswaram Not available
3 Paramakudi 730.73
4 Thiruvadanai 963.28
5 Kamuthi 398.23
6 Muthukulathur 977.55
District Total 3889.62
2.3 Administrative Arrangement in the District
Ramanathapuram district comprises 6 taluks, 11 blocks and 2087 Villages. As regards
the hierarchy of administrative arrangement, there are 2 Municipalities, 8 Town
Panchayats and 444 Village Panchayats in the district. The Community Development
Blocks are Tiruvadanai, Rajasingamangalam, Paramakkudi, Bogalur, Nainarkoil,
Kamudi, Madukulattur, Kadaladi, Ramanathapuram, Tiruppullani, and Mandapam.
The details regarding the number of blocks, villages, village panchayats, town
panchayats and municipalities with regard to each taluk are given in Table No.1.
2.4 Meteorological Information
Climate - The climate of this district in the inland plains is generally hot and dry with a
low degree of humidity except within a radius of about 20 Kilometres from the coast,
where the temperature is tolerable and cool on account of the sea breeze.
Rainfall: - The district receives the bulk of its rain from the Northeast monsoon, which is
often late, irregular and scanty.
The monthly average rainfall in the district was 75.73 mm. The months of October,
November and December receive a rainfall that is more than the annual average rainfall.
The average number of rainy days, mean maximum temperature, mean minimum
temperature and mean relative humidity for the period of 1991-96 are given in Table 2.
However data onward velocity and direction are not available.
2.5 Demographic Details
The Growth of population over the past three decades and the essential characteristics of
the population for the past four decades in terms of birth rate, death rate, infant
mortality rate and literacy level are given in Table Nos. 3,4 and 5.
2.5.1 Population
The population of Ramanathapuram district has grown from 8,69,867 in 1961 to
11,44,040 in 1991. The growth rate indicates that there has been a significant increase
during the 1981-91 decade with the average growth rate being 1.75 % per annum
during this decade. According to the 1991 census of Ramanathapuram taluk is the most
thickly populated and Kamuthi taluk is the least populated in the district. The details of
population growth along with the growth rate- taluk wise are given in Table No. 3.

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AIMS Research, Chennai - 600 018. Directorate of Environment, GTN

Population of Ramanathapuram District (Yearwise)

13

1 1 .4 4
11
9 .7 3
8 .6 9 8 .4 3
Population in lakhs

9
D is tr ic t
P o p u la tio n
7

1
1961 1971 1981 1991

Years

2.5.2 Trend in Birth/Death Rate and Infant Mortality Rate

Birth rate, death rate and infant mortality rate have been reduced significantly from
38.05 in 1961 to 21.00 in 1991, 18.38 in 1961 to 9.00 in 1991 and 95.14 in 1961 to
50.47 in 1991 respectively. The details regarding these are given in Table No. 4.

District Birth / Death Rate and Infant Mortality Rate

Parameter (Per Thousand)
110

100

90

B irth R a te
80

70
D e a th R a te
60

50
In fa n t M o rta lity
40 R a te

30

20

10

0
1961 1971 1981 1991

Census Years

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AIMS Research, Chennai - 600 018. Directorate of Environment, GTN

2.5.3 Literacy Level among the Population

The literacy level of Ramanathapuram district according to figures available for the year
1996 is 54.13% with male literacy level being more than the female literacy level. It is
also observed while the male literacy level has grown steadily from 59.32% in 1981 to
65.01% in 1996, there has been a significant increase of female literacy level from
31.11% in 1981 to 43.74% in 1996. The information on literacy level of the district is
given in Table No. 5.

Literate Population of Ramanathapuram District

8.00
6.80
7.00
6.00
6.00
4.37
Total
In Lakhs

5.00
3.60 3.99
Male
4.00
2.83 2.81
3.00
Fem ale
2.40

2.00 1.54

1.00

0.00
198 1 1 991 1 996

Years

Education: Sethupathi Government Arts College, Ramanathapuram and Dr. Zakir Husain
College, Ilayangudi, Ramanathapuram are two colleges catering the districts higher
education needs.

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AIMS Research, Chennai - 600 018. Directorate of Environment, GTN

Chapter

3
3.0 Resources – Availability, Use and Environmental Status
3.1 Land Resources
Resources of the district, their availability, use and environmental status is discussed in
the following sections.

3.1.1 Agriculture and Horticulture

Ramanathapuram district is deficient in rainfall. There are no major rivers providing
perennial water supply for cultivation. Till the advent of independence, most of the
areas were Zamindari areas and as such there was not enough enthusiasm for the
ryots to develop agriculture. With the implementation of the schemes under the
successive five-year plans and with the introduction of ryotwari settlement on the
abolition of Zamindari system, fillip has been given to agriculture in the district.
Though a dry district, agriculture is extensively undertaken by irrigating the land
from tanks and wells. The rainfall during the Southwest monsoon is rather poor. The
rain from Northeast monsoon season is the major one but is not steady and is
dependent on the vagaries of the monsoon. Whatever rainfall occurs, it is utilised to
the best advantage through a large number of tanks and wells in the district. Paddy is
the most important food crop of the district. About 46 per cent of the total area sown
are under this food crop. Paddy crop is grown on wet lands irrigated by rivers, canals,
tanks and wells. Cumbu, Cholam, Ragi, Varagu, Samai and Kudiravali are the millets
produced in the district. Ragi is grown in a wide range of varying soil fertility during
the periods, May-June and November-January. In East Ramanathapuram district,
cotton has been introduced as an irrigated crop in summer. Large areas have been
brought under improved varieties of cotton. The Ramanathapuram district is one of the
chief cotton producing areas in the State, besides Coimbatore and Tirunelveli.
Groundnut and Gingilly are the two prominent oil seeds grown in the district.
i. Land Utilisation: Geography and Physical Features
The total geographical area of the district was 3889.62 sq.km. in the year 1995-96.
Cropped area accounts for about 53.68% of the total area. Forest lands cover about
1.30% of the total land. A significant portion (42.13%) of the land falls under the
category of ‘non available for cultivation’ and ‘fallow lands’. About 2.89% fall under the
category of uncultivated land. The land utilisation pattern in Ramanathapuram district
(Block-wise) is given in Table No. 6.

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Land Utilisation - Ramanathapuram District

In Percentage
1%

Forest Lands (1%)

22%

Non available for

Cultivation (22%)

3% O ther Uncultivated
54% Lands (3%)

Fallow Lands (20%)

20%
Cropped Area (54%)

ii. Trend in Production and Productivity of Important Crops

Production and Productivity of Important Crops of Cereals, pulses and oil seeds are
observed that to are the three important crops produced in the district. The productivity
pattern indicates that the productivity of cereals, pulses and oil seeds have fluctuations
over 7 years. The area under production for cereals, pulses and oil seeds have also
fluctuations in the years 1990-97. However, certain larger variation in production and
productivity of cereals and oil seeds are noticed for the year 93-94 and 92-93, 93-94
respectively. The details on the productivity performance of the district in relation to the
above important crops for the past 7 years are given in Table No. 7.
iii. Horticultural and Plantation Crops
There were fruit crops with a yield of 5690 tonnes, vegetables crops of 430 tonnes and
plantation crops of not available for cultivated in 279 ha. and 72 ha. respectively in the
years 1996-97. The details pertaining the crops are given in Table No. 8.
iv. Consumption of Fertilisers and Pesticides
About 35789 metric tonnes of chemical fertilisers were used in 1995-96, out of which
more than 60% constitutes the nitrogenous fertilisers. There has also been an intensive
use of bio-fertilisers in the district, followed by pesticides in 1995-96. Moreover, 29913
tonnes of urea were used in the district. The details on the total of consumption with
block wise details of chemical fertilisers, urea, bio-fertilisers and dust and liquid
pesticides are given in Table No. 9.
v. Trend in consumption of Fertilisers and Pesticides
The usage of chemical fertilisers, bio-fertilisers and dust and liquid pesticides was 65702
tonnes, 208670 pockets and 279500 kg and 29548.10 litres respectively in the years
1995-96. The decrease in percentage of the bio-fertilisers is 7.6 in the years 1994-95.
The details with regard to the trends in the consumption of fertilisers and pesticides over
the past 3 years are given in Table No. 10.

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vi. Soil Types

The district has two naturally distinct regions viz., (i) the plains of the Paramakkudi
taluk and portions of Mudukulattur, Ramanathapuram and Tiruvadanai taluks and (ii)
the sandy coastal areas of Mudukulattur, Ramanathapuram and Tiruvadani taluks.
The plains of Paramakkudi taluk and portions of Mudukulattur, Ramanathapuram and
Tiruvadanai taluks mostly have black cotton soil or regard locally known as "Karisal".
This soil is mostly used for growing cotton and cultivation of dry crops. The familiar
landscape is of palms and acacias.
Typic Chromusterts and Vertic Haplustalfs are the soil types in this district accounting for
0.60% and 0.58% respectively, followed by Typic Ustipsammants for 0.26%. The details
of other types of soils are given in Table No. 11.
vii. Soil Problems
About 2.72% of the land available for cultivation is sand, desertic and about 0.63%
suffers from salinity/alkalinity. The details in this regard are given in Table No. 12.
viii. Status of Soil and Water Conservation Programs
Soil conservation works were being undertaken in 22186.38 Ha. of cropping area. These
conservation works have been done in 11 blocks in the district. There has been 174
new construction of wells for irrigation and 85 construction of check dams/stop Dams in
Government sector in the district. The necessary details are given in Table No. 13.
ix. Animal Husbandry
The livestock population comprises mainly of cattle and buffaloes, sheep, goats,
pigs and poultry. There are veterinary hospitals, veterinary dispensaries, and key
village centres and veterinary sub-centres in the district. Under drought prone area
program, Shilch cattle are distributed and the sheep units have been established. A
scheme for upgrading local goats in Rameswaram area is implemented. A coastal
district with a lengthy coastline of about 271 kms. will naturally have sea fishing.
Besides, the district has a very large number of tanks, which are conductive for inland
fishing. Further, the district has been famous for chank and pearl fishing from very
early times. Fishing has, therefore, a significant role to play in the economy of the
district. There are about 50 villages in which a large population of fishermen lives. The
important fishing centres in the district are Tondi, Pamban, Devipatnam,
Rameswaram, Kilakkarai and Alangulam. To give encouragement to fishing, schemes
under the Five Year Plans have been implemented. One of the schemes relates to the
supply of motorboats to fishermen co-operative societies. Another scheme provides for
the supply of nylon nets to the fishermen. For getting a good market and price for
the fish caught, ice and refrigeration units are established in Tondi, Kilakkarai,
Mandapam and Mofarm. Fish curing centres are functioning at Tondi under the private
sector and at Athangarai and Mukkaiyur in the public sector. An ice plant and cold
storage unit is under construction at Kilakkarai. Subsidised salt is being supplied to
fishermen for curing fish at two fish curing yards. Improvements in fish markets
maintained by local bodies have been made so as to enable the sale of the fresh and
cured fish under hygienic conditions. Rameswaram Island is an important area from
where mechanised boats are used for marine fishing by owners hailing from different
parts of Tamil Nadu. The Indo-Norwegian Fishing Project has been established at
Mandapam for implementing various schemes for fisheries development. The Union
Government has also established a Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute at

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Mandapam for the development of sea fishing in which investigation in various

fields of fishery, biology, fishery survey, marine biology and general physiology is
carried out.
Schemes to provide quick growing, indigenous the exotic varieties of inland fish and to
be implemented in a number of centres in the district. The fish seeds are stocked,
reared and distributed to demonstration tanks, revenue tanks and to private persons.
3.1.2 Forest Resources
i. Forest Area
There are 18 forest areas in Ramanathapuram district constituting a total area of
5356.85 Ha. 13 forest areas fall under the Reserve land category with 4139.39 ha.
(41.39 sq.km). and category of reserve forest areas in 702.46 ha. There is Unclassified
forest available in 515 ha. in the district. The details regarding the classification of forest
area with their extent are given in Table No. 14.
ii. Green cover classification of forest
In the district total area of forest under green cover classification was 22149 Ha. Dense
and Sparse forest are 742 Ha. and 538 Ha. respectively. There is no grass land and
degraded forest area covering this region. (Refer Table. No. 14b)
iii. Trend in Per Capita Forest Area
The forest area has not shown much fluctuation over the years. The per-capita forest
area has however shown a declining trend from 0.0062 Ha. in 1961 to 0.0043 Ha in 1996
due to the steady increase in population. The details are given in Table No. 15.
iv. Man Made Forest Plantations
The Man Made Forest Plantations have been restricted to the existing forest areas in
Ramanathapuram district. About 2562.65 hectares of man made forest area are
available in the district. Fuel wood is the only man made forest plantation in the district.
Necessary details are given in Table No. 16.
v. Details of Villages Abutting Forest Area
The villages located in the taluks of Thiruvadanai, Muthukulathur and Rameswaram abut
forest areas in the district. Out of these taluks, Thiruvadanai has more number of villages
abutting the forest area. The details regarding the villages abutting the forest area and
their population are given in Table No. 17.
vi. Forestry Area Diverted for Non Forestry Purposes
Total area diverted from forest use is 0.01 Ha. The details regarding the forest area
diverted for non-forestry purposes are given in Table No. 18
vii. Conservation of Biological Resources, Wild like Census, Rare/Threatened Species of Flora and
Fauna
Biosphere reserve and sanctuary are the protected area Pamban kuthavalli in 52.59 ha.
and keelakarai & Mandapam of 11 Islands in 378.05 ha. respectively in the district.
Chitrangudi, Kanjanankulam, Melselvanar & Keelselvanar bird sanctuaries located in this
district spread over 46.63 ha., 104.00 ha., and 593 Ha. respectively. Best season to visit
this sanctuary is November to February.
Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve :
Designated a Biosphere Reserve, The Gulf of Mannar and its 3600 Species of flora and
fauna is one of the biologically richest coastal regions in all of mainland of India. Some of
the islands are veritable ‘ biologist’s paradise ’ It holds within maximum genetic diversity.

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It is equally rich in sea -algae, scagrasses. Coral reef pearl banks, sacred chank bed, fin
& shell fish resources, mangroves, and endemic & Endangered species. It is an important
habitat for the highly endangered sea mammal, the Dugong dugon commonly called as
sea cow.
Fauna: Wild Life is significantly scarce in this district.
Bird life – Ramanathapuram district is a paradise for the bird-watcher, especially during
the winter months when all tanks are full attracting many avian visitors. The numbers of
tanks in this district are so many that very approximately it is referred to as the “Lake
District” of the State. Many beautiful birds like the paradise fly-catcher, the golden
oriole, the small green barbet, the red-vented bulbul the king fisher the black cormorant,
the partridge, the snipe, the rose-ringed parakeet and the blossom-headed parakeet are
some of the more important birds seen in the lower forests along the plains.
The following birds are living in the forest of Srivilliputhur, which was part of
Ramanathapuram district until 1985. The Ashy crowned finch dark, Purple sun bird,
Purple rumpled sunbird, Indian pitta, Yellow fronted pied, Golden backed woodpecker,
Grimson-breasted Barbet, Common hawk-cuckoo, Pied creasted cuckoo and the Koel.
Other birds of note are the greater hornbills, the whistling schoolboy, the rocket-tailed
dronga, the scarlet minivet, the grey tit, the golden backed wood-pecker and the hill
mynah. These birds are however confined to the shola forests only.
Prosopis Juliflore - Highlights and Comments:
1. Prosopis, A Social Asset: In the districts (24,04,500 ha) cultivable waste and other
fallow lands occupy 4,80,900 ha (1989-90) and dry land agriculture 5,94,300 ha totalling
10,75,200 ha. Based on an estimated production of wood and charcoal the probable are
of Prosopis under active exploitation may vary from 3 to 4.5 lakhs ha depending on the
average productivity of anything between 10 and 15 tonnes/ha. It is likely that natural
Prosopis of such an extent would be found in the categories of the lands mentioned
above. Its socio-economic importance becomes very obvious if past attempts to raise
community plantations under the Social Forestry Programme are recalled. Nearly four
lakhs ha were raised since 1960-61 in the entire State, the outlay exceeding Rs.120
crores. Prosopis has proved to be a great social asset at no cost to the government. It
has brought back vast stretches of land into use and labour into productive employment.
(6.34 million man-days and 7.03 million woman-days per annum).
2. Prosopis, The Great Provider: Prosopis ecologically successful and favoured by
many contributory factors, has overrun available lands in the five southern districts in the
last two decades and now occupies 3,00,000 to 4,50,000 ha, which is under exploitation.
No doubt it is a vigorously regenerating, plentiful and useful crop where agriculture is
uncertain and life frustrating. It is great natural boon, because man has no hand in its
development except exploitation. The total annual wages by way of exploitation
amounts to Rs.232 millions working out to Rs. 2,323 per ha once in three years or a
national annual wage accrual of Rs. 774 per ha. The other benefits include hire to
owners of double bullock-carts and lorries, wages to sundry workers, brokerage, business
to firewood merchants, sustenance to village artisans (carpenters and blacksmiths) and
feed to livestock.
3. Prosopis and Ground Water: Nevertheless Prosopis could become a bane in the
sense that farmers have to spend a lot of energy and effort to keep it off their cultivating
lands and there is little respite from this highly invasive species. The fears of many

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villagers, we talked to, that it lowered the water table do not appear to be whooly
unfounded. We have no knowledge of dry land ecology, much less the effect Prosopis
has on ground water. The ground water vis-à-vis Prosopis is an important topical theme
in the context of overall groundwater depletion and needs immediate study.
4. Prosopis Silviculture: Prosopis productivity and its response to repeated felling on
short cycle is far better than native species considering the agro-climatic conditions. It is
high time that silvicultural system for maximum volume production is taken up for a
detailed study. It is worthwhile to study the economics of fertilisation. The logistics for
aerial fertiliser application are favourable where large blocks running to many hundreds
of hectares occur in Ramanathapuram, P.M.T. and Virudhunagar districts, particularly at
their boundaries. The study should take into account groundwater considerations.
5. Rethinking of Social Forestry Activities: Under the Social Forestry Programme
Phase I and II Babul is the choice of species for tankbed plating in these districts as per
general plan. Ecologically and socio-economically Prosopis has proved itself a much
better species than Babul. In fact in one tank bed in Ramanathapuram district, a group
of women labourers toiling on removal of Prosopis for Babul planting by the Forestry
Department were vociferously protesting against the replacing of Prosopis by Babul. It
was a genuine and a meaningful protest. Economically a hectare of Babul planting
generates 44 man-days and 123 woman-days employment and exploitation 80 man-day
and 40 man-days provided the yield of wood is 20 tonnes per hectare, often it is less
than that. the coupe contractors use their own trained labour for exploitation, denying
the local people the benefit of wages. The total wages amount to Rs.2,090 once in ten
years (i.e.) Rs.209 a year as against Rs.774 a year from Prosopis (exploitation and
charcoal making only). Babul is not favoured for another reason and according to local
people the charcoal out-turn is 150-180 kg/tonne of wood which is less than that of
Prosopis and it is more brittle. The Programme with emphasis on Babul, if continued,
will only amount to denying the poor an additional earning of Rs.565 for every ha of
planting. It is evident that even Phase II of the Social Forestry Programme does not
seem to reflect the realities of the situation. Such blanket plans prepared at State level
with no grassroot level contact lack the sensitivity of social underpinning and are not
likely to achieve the objective.
6. Charcoal Making: Moisture content of wood at the time of carbonisation is an
important factor for getting high quality and quantity of charcoal. Otherwise part of the
wood charged into the kiln is used for driving away the moisture which could be avoided
by sun-drying. But this is not followed and the felled wood goes straightaway for the
process. Second, stacking the wood is time consuming and costly. Third, forced cooling
by dousing with water rather than allowing it to cool naturally reduces output and adds
to the cost of process. The workers are against radical changes in the process nor are
the charcoal producers willing for higher investment, say in portable steel kilns. A
detailed study to suggest changes in the technique and process is very essential for
maximising output and wage earning.
7. Money-Lending: The usurious rate of interest (60 to 120 percent) in the rural areas
reduces the entire activity to one of poverty alleviation measures and keeps the socially
handicapped rural poor (Scheduled Castes) in a perpetual state of abject poverty. The
rural banks are of no help. Hence is a rare instance of a natural resources being
available for productive employment but lack of contributory factor like credit on easy
terms simply does not make it happen. It sum Prosopis, no doubt, is the staff of life for a

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multitude of rural poor. How to handle it, environment friendly, and at the same time
how to maximise the flow of benefits to the deserving rural poor merits a comprehensive
and high priority study. Necessary information is furnished in Table Nos. 19,20 & 21.
3.1.3 Mineral Resources
The eastern portion of the district consists of rocks formed in beds of swallow lakes
and coastal backwaters where the salt and mud brought by the rivers are deposited.
The sedimentary rocks extend into the whole of Tiruvadanai, Ramanathapuram and
Mudukulattur taluks. These sediments, mostly of clay and sandstone, have been
deposited for several million years from what is known in types of clays geological
parlance as Gondwana age, to the present day. They contain limestones. Limestone of
different grades, clays, euchres, gypsum, graphite and Limonite sands are the minerals
of economic value found in the district.
Minerals – Clay: China clay with an average thickness of 0.91 mm. occurs over an area of
2.59 Sq. Km. in Sivaganga area. The total estimated reserve area of the order of 4.06
million tonnes upto a depth of 3.05 mm.
Garnet and Ilemenite sands – The beach sands along the coast of Ramanathapuram
district carry small quantities of garnet and ilemenite ranging in length from a few meters
to 8 Km. and in thickness from 0.6 to 2.5 cm. The total reserves of ilmenite and garnet
are 4165 and 1219 tonnes respectively.
Graphite: Graphite bearing zones have been met between 3m and 32m at several
horizons in the boreholes. The percentage of graphite in the rock varies from 18 to 23.
The graphite bearing zone has been proved along the strike direction for a distance of
2000m. The total preliminary estimated reserves are of the order of 1,80,000 tonnes of
graphite bearing rock.
Gypsym: The total reserves of this area are estimated to be of 33,500 tonnes of which
about 10,000 tonnes have already been mined.
Limeshell – Sub-Recent shell limestone occurs at about 0.8 Km. north of
Ramanathapuram.The total reserves are of the order of 81,300 tonnes.
Limestone – Three bands of good quality crystalline limestone occur in the vicinity of (1)
Pandalkudi (58 K/3; 9024’, 78006’), (2) Palavanattam (58 K/2; 9033’, 78000’) and (3)
Chinnayyapuram (58 G/15; 9029’, 77058’).Information available for mineral reserves
produced in the district is given in Table 22.
3.2 Water Resources
3.2.1. Rivers, Canals & Waterways
The existence of over 5000 number of tanks in the district makes it known as the
Lake district of the State. Vaigai river starting in Gandamanaickanur hills of Madurai
district traverse through Paramakkudi and Ramanathapuram taluks in a south-easterly
direction feeding a large number of tanks. It joins the sea near Attangarai. There are
no perennial rivers in Ramanathapuram district. The only river of importance is Vaigai.
The Gundar in the eastern slopes of the Varushanadu and Andipatty ranges above
Watrap flows through Aruppukkottai and empties into the Gulf of Mannar. The river
assumes the name of Reghunatha Cauvery from Kamuthi.

3.2.2 River basins and their catchment areas

i. Catchment Area of River Basins - Rivers, Canals and Waterways
Vaigai river basin, Pambar & kottakaraiyar and Gundar,are the three catchment areas of
river basin in the district. The area of the basin within the district is 77000 ha., 124800
ha. and 213100 ha. respectively. The details are given in the Table No. 23.

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ii. Basin wise status of the Ground Water Availability

There have been three river basins-Vaigai, Pambar & Kottakaraiyar and Gundar which
have annual surface water potential 1579 [MCM], 653 [MCM] and 567 [MCM]
respectively (Refer Table No. 24).
iii. Details of Dams and Reservoirs
There are three rivers were flowing to this district but no dam is available in the district
(Refer Table No. 25). There have been 156 system tanks and 361 seasonal/rainfed
tanks maintained by Public Works Department in Ramanathapuram district. 1340
panchayats tanks were also available in the district. Available water spread area in the
district was not made available. The details are given in Table No. 26.
iv. Irrigation by Different Sources
The total cropped area is 208790 hectares and the percentage of irrigated area to
cropped area is 4.87. The gross areas irrigated by tanks and wells are 7861 hectares
and 2307.95 hectares respectively. R.S.Mangalam block has at maximum of 4857 ha.
irrigated by Tanks and 437.64 ha. irrigated by wells. The details on irrigated area by
different sources are given in Table No. 27.
v. Incidence of Drought, Flood and Cyclone
There are 7 taluks and 11 blocks in the years 1985-86 in the district. It has been
ascertained from the available information that only one taluk and three blocks were
affected by drought in the years 1994-95. There were one taluk and two blocks affected
by drought in the years 1996-97. No block was reportedly affected by cyclone and flood
in the district during the period 1985-1997. The details are given in Table No. 28.
3.2.3 Fisheries Production
The Ramanathapuram district has 271 km. of coastal line. No information was available
for inland fresh water area and estuaries & brackish water area. Marine fishing was done
in 99 villages in the district. The fish production has increased both in quantity and value
during the years 1990–96. The details are given in Table No. 29.
i. General Fish Seed Production
The fish seed production of standard fry fluctuates from 1991 to 1996 and the highest
production was in the years 1991-92. The inland fish production has also fluctuations
between 1991 and 1996 in the district. There has been an increasing trend in coastal
fish production in the district between 1991 and 1996. The details on fish and fish seed
production are given in Table No. 30.
3.3 Heritage Resources
i. Protected and Conserved Monuments
One village of Ramanathapuram taluk has monuments namely Ramalinga Vilasam Palace
maintained by the Department of Archaeological and one village of Kamudi taluk has a
monument namely Fort Kamudi maintained by the department of Archaeology. The
details are given in Table No. 31.
ii. Places of Tourist Attraction
Ramanathapuram district has a number of places having temples, famous for
antiquity and sculpture. This region, having been known from early times and
mentioned in Ramayana and later in Tamil Puranas, naturally has a good number of
places of worship associated with Hindu gods. Of these, Rameswaram deserve mention
which even now attract large number of persons from within the district and
outside. Rameswaram is an island, but very close to the main land. It is the Pamban
canal , which separates it from the main land. Rameswaram can be reached by train
and lies on the Chennai-Rameswaram main line of the Southern Railway.

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Rameswaram is a sacred place for Hindus and is as famous as Varanasi in the

northern India. It is 12 miles from Mandapam, the nearest place on the main land,
and it is from here that Rameswaram is linked by rail.
The town is built on an island in the Palk Straits at the extreme south- eastern tip of
the Indian Peninsula. It contains one of India's most venerated temple, a fine example
of south Indian architecture. The presiding deity of the temple is Ramanathaswamy,
said to have been installed in Linga form by Sri Rama of the Ramayana epic on his
return from Sri Lanka defeating Ravana. The Ramalingam at Rameswaram is one of
the twelve Jyothi Lingams in India. The most impressive feature is the many pillared
corridors, covering a length of 1220 metres. Besides, there are art works depicting
puranic stories. Gandhamadhana Parvadham is a hillock to the north of the temple
and is the highest point around from where one sets an excellent view of the temple
and is the highest point around from where one gets an excellent view of the
island. There is a two storeyed Mandapam and Rama's foot placed on a chakra for
worship attracts pilgrims. Dhanushkodi, another holy place is situated at a distance of
8 kms. from Rameswaram and has a temple for Kothandaramaswamy. The temple
remains intact on the island, even though Dhanushkodi was washed away by the
cyclone in 1964. It is believed that Vibhishana, brother of Ravana, surrendered before Sri
Rama at this spot. The three main festivals celebrated at Rameswaram temple are
Sivarathri for 10 days (February-March) Brahmotsavam for 3 days (June-July) and
Tirukalyanam for 17 days (July-August).
There are 12 tourist places located at 12 villages/towns in the historical / cultural /
natural heritage area. The special significance of the area is Palace, Saint Temple, Hindu
Temples, Sanctuary, Pilgrim centre, Mosque and Beach. Tourist arrivals in domestic have
steadily increasing from 1990 to 1996. These tourist spots are visited throughout the
year except Bird Sanctuary and Shiva Temple and included in the tourist circuits
identified by the tourism department. Tourist arrivals both domestic and foreign have
been steadily increasing and estimated as 1365036 during 1997 in the district (Refer
Table No. 32 & 33).

T o u ris t A rriv a ls (D o m e s tic ) in R a m a n a th a p u ra m D is tric t

20

18

16 1 3 .2 7 1 3 .5 3 1 3 .6 5
1 3 .3 7
14

12
T o u r is t
In Lakhs

10 A r r iv a ls
8

0
1994 1995 1996 1997

Y e a rs

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3.4 Energy Resources

i. Installed Power Projects
There have been no installed power projects in the district (Refer Table No. 34).
ii. Consumption of Electricity
There were 2,61,750 electrical connections with a total consumption of 3,85,17,171
kW/h as on 1995-96. Agricultural consumption has the maximum accounting for 52.4%
of the total consumption, followed by domestic consumption of 16.2%. The category
wise consumption of electricity is given in Table No. 35.

Category wise Consumption of Electricity

In Percentage
2%
16% Dome stic (16%)

Comme rcial (3%)

3%
Industrial (4%)
4%

3% Low Te nsion (3%)

53%
High Te nsion (19%)

19% Agriculture (53%)

Stre e t Lights (2%)

iii. Electrification of Villages

Ramanathapuram district has achieved 100% electrification prior to 1986. All 2087
villages in the district are electrified. The electrification of the energised pumps was 7401
in the year 1996 (Refer Table No. 36).
iv. Non Conventional & Renewable Energy Sources Utilisation
There have been no estimates on non-conventional and renewable energy sources
utilisation as the information was not furnished (Refer Table No. 37).

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Chapter

4
4.0 Infrastructure
4.1 Urbanisation
4.1.1 Urbanisation pattern
The proportion of urban population to total population increased during the years 1981-
96 from 21.61% to 23.29% and is increased at about 15% during 1991-96. Among the
urban areas, Paramakudi municipality accounts for a greater share of urban population
when compared to the other urban areas. The proportion of rural population to total
population increased from 78.39% to 77.07% during the years 1981-1991 and then
decreased to 76.71% in 1996. The urbanisation pattern of the district is given in Table
No. 38.

Urbanisation Pattern of Ram anathapuram District

100

90 7 7 .0 7
7 6 .7 1
80 7 8 .3 9

70
1981
In Percentage

60 1991
50
1996
40

30 2 1 .6 1 2 2 .9 3 2 3 .2 9

20

10

0
Urb a n Ru ra l

P attern

4.1.2 Density of Population

The overall density of population has increased from 230 persons / sq.km. in 1981 to 297
persons / sq.km. in 1996. The density in urban area has increased from 1209
persons/sq.km. in 1981 to 1591 persons/sq.km. in 1996 and the density of rural area
has decreased from 188 persons/sq.km. in 1981 to 238 persons/sq./km. in 1996. The
details on density are given in Table No. 39.

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Population Density in Ramanathapuram District

350
297

300
Persons / Sq.km.

270

1981
250 230

1991
200

1996
150

100

50
1981 1991 1996

Census Years

4.1.3 Decadal Growth rate in Urban centres

The decadal growth rates in municipalities and town panchayats have increased in the
years 1961 to 1996. The urban population of the district has grown from 1.04 lakhs in
1961 to 2.92 lakhs in 1996. The decadal growth rate indicates that there is a
considerable decline in growth over the previous decade in the municipalities of the
district. Paramakudi municipality has registered the maximum growth rate. The details
of decadal growth rate are given in Table No. 40. The Decennial growth rate for both
urban and rural population over the past one decade, 1961 to1991 has increased (Refer
Table No. 41).

4.1.4 Urban Slum Population

No information was available for slum population in the district. (Refer Table No. 42).

4.1.5 Trend in urbanisation and slums

The urban population has increased from 21.61% in 1981 to 23.29% in 1996 period. The
identified slum population of Ramanathapuram district was not available. The details are
given in Table No. 43.
4.2 Infrastructure Services and Environmental Status
4.2.1 Occupied Housing Units
Total number of occupied housing units has 218160 HH in 1996 in the district. Details
regarding occupying housing units by water supply system and toilet installation by rural
and urban areas of Ramanathapuram district are given in Table No. 44. It is seen that
majority of households have water supply outside the houses. Likewise majority of
household do not have toilet facility of any type.

4.2.2 Urban Services

Surface water and ground water are the major sources for protected water supply
system in municipalities and town panchayats respectively. The Percapita water supply

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for municipalities and town panchayats is 52 LPCD and 49 LPCD respectively. The
average water supply is around 50.43 LPCD for the district. The municipality of
Ramanathapuram has the highest consumption of 55 litres, while the town panchayat of
Kilakkarai has 46 litres. The municipality of Paramakudi has 15% at the maximum and
the town panchayats, Kamuthi and Muthukulathur, have 10% each at the maximum of
percentage of population uncovered for water supply. Details on water supply services
are given in Table No. 45.

4.2.3 Domestic waste water generation and treatment

The estimated sewage generation is 56 lakh litres among municipalities and 72.80 lakh
litres among town panchayats. The district does not have any organised disposal of
sewage. Nature of disposal and quantity through river is 56 Lakh litres in municipalities
and 25.9 lakh litres in town panchayats, with the direct flow to sea disposal is 46.90 lakh
litres. The town panchayats have complete open drainage system and the municipalities
have partial under ground pipe system. The details on domestic wastewater generation
and treatment in the district are given in Table No. 46.

4.2.4 Municipal Solid Waste Generation

The solid waste generation of municipalities and town panchayats are 15 tonnes and
21.75 tonnes, respectively. The solid waste collection in municipalities and town
panchayats is 15 tonnes and 20.3 tonnes, respectively as on 1995-96. Overall the solid
waste generated adds up to 36.75 tonnes with a collection efficiency of 96.05% with a
manpower of 424 on solid waste management. The availability of compost yard in
municipalities is two (Refer Table No. 47).

4.2.5 Composition of Solid Waste

It was observed that about 86% of the solid waste are compostable on wet basis 14% of
rag, wood matter, glasses, brick and stone, etc, are non-compostable in the district. The
details are given in Table No. 48.

4.2.6 Coverage of Problem Villages

It has been identified that about 1707 villages out of the total 2087 villages in the district
have had problems with regard to supply of drinking water. R.S.Mangalam block has at
maximum villages (385) in problem. 839 problem villages have been covered during the
VII Five Year Plan (1987-92) and 868 villages covered during the VIII Five Year (1992-
97). Necessary details are given in Table No. 49.
4.2.7 Reported cases of water borne diseases
Gastro-enteritis cases and dysentery cases were reported from the year 1992 to 1996
and the deaths of gastro-enteritis cases were also reported from the year 1992 to 1996.
Information was not available for other water borne diseases. (Refer Table No. 50).
4.2.8 Facilities under Indian system of Medicines
Medical facilities of one type or others are available in 154 inhabited villages, which
constitute 37.47 percent of its total inhabited villages. Homeopathy, Sidda and
Allopathy are the commonly practised systems of medicine in the district. In addition
there is a Unani Medicine dispensary available in the district. Information on hospitals,
beds, dispensaries and admission capacity are given in Table No. 51.
4.2.9 Population below poverty line
There have been 72326 families of below poverty line in the district. The details are
given in Table No. 52.

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4.3 Transportation
The district is served by the metre gauge section of the Southern Railway. The main line
from Chennai Egmore to Rameswaram runs through the district linking Karaikkudi and
Manamadurai of the adjoining district. Road transport is another important aspect in
communication facilities. The district is connected by the national highway. NH 49,
Madurai - Dhanushkodi road, connects Manamadurai, Paramakkudi, and
Ramanathapuram. There is no major shipping transport in the district. A small port at
Rameswaram is having a ferry service to Talaimannar, situated in the north of Sri
Lanka. This service is not operated round the year, but stopped with the onset of
north-east monsoon. Kilakkarai port lost its importance in sea transport with the
development of railway line to Thoothukudi and the opening of the Pamban-Madurai
line. However, a little foreign trade is done with Jaffna, Kaits, Talaimannar and Colombo.
Chanks are imported from Kaits and exported to Calcutta and Dacca for making bangles.
4.3.1 Development of Roads and Bridges
The district has 88 Km. of national highway, 59.70 km. of state highways, 383.20 km. of
major district roads, 1100.62 Km. of other district roads 343.20 km. of panchayat roads
and 40 km. of roads maintained by urban local bodies in 1996. Over and above, there
are 1 major bridge and 265 minor bridges and culverts in the district in 1996. Relevant
information is provided in Table No. 53.
4.3.2 Growth of Vehicle population
Two, three and four wheeler vehicles in the year 1996 were 14458, 1150 and 1212
respectively. (Refer Table No. 54).
4.4 Industrial Development and Environmental Status
The district is considered as an industrially backward area and the Government is giving
incentives like cheap sites, adequate power supply and loans on low rates of interest to
entrepreneurs for setting up industries. The Government on their part also has set up
few establishments in the public / co-operative sectors for providing employment to
local population. The chief industries found in the district are handloom weaving of
textiles, spinning and weaving of textiles in factories, salt and chemical industries,
cement, matches, crackers and fireworks and printing and allied industries. Handloom
weaving of cotton textiles is an ancient occupation followed in this district. The
important handloom centres are situated in Paramakkudi taluk. Silk weaving, using
China Silk as raw material, is practised in Ramanathapuram and Paramakkudi. Textile
mill is functioning in the district, which produce a variety of yarns. Mat weaving is
followed in the vicinity of Ilaiyankudi. Boxes and other articles from palmyrah leaves are
being manufactured in a number of places in Ramanathapuram taluk. Coconut coir fibre
making are followed in the district, the important centres being Periyapattinam
(Ramanathapuram taluk).
4.4.1 Number of Industries
There have been 28 Red Category, 45 Orange Category and 2 Green Category Industries
in 1995-96 which are classified, based on the nature of hazardness by TNPCB. Red
category industries are mostly chemicals, textiles and pharmaceutical industries. The
details on the number of industries are given in Table No. 55.
4.4.2 Emission Inventory of Major Industries
Information was not available in this head (Refer Table No. 56).
4.4.3 Air pollution stressed area
Information was not available for air pollution stressed area in the district. The Details
are given in Table No. 57.
4.4.4 Ambient Air quality Status
There has been no ambient air quality monitored in Ramanathapuram district. The
Details are given in Table 58.

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4.4.5 Water quality

The geological formation comprised in this district is of mostly marine origin and hence
the groundwater is most of the district areas at all levels is brackish and saline. A few
areas confined to the shallow alluvial aquifer of Vaigai River are the only source of
potable quality of water in this district. Under MINAR’S Scheme TNPCB is monitoring the
quality of water from Vaigai River bed near Thirubuvanam. DO content of water is
exceeding the standard value. pH of water is slightly more than the standard. The
details are given in Table No. 59.
4.4.6 Discharge of Industrial effluents
There has been no discharge of industrial effluents in river basin/other water bodies in
Ramanathapuram district (Refer Table No. 60).
4.4.7 Noise levels
Data on residential noise levels were not available (Refer Table No. 61). It is ascertained
that no noise level monitoring is being carried.
4.5 Environmental Status of Coastal Eco-system
4.5.1 Industrial sewage discharge in the coastal waters
Industrial sewage discharge available for the coastal water of 1025 m3/d in the district.
The coastal towns and coastal villages are 11 and 99 respectively.(Refer Table No. 62).
4.5.2 Aqua culture activities
Ramanathapuram district has 271km. of Coastal line covering 99 coastal villages and
towns. There are 164 aqua-culture units spread of 417 ha. in Ramanathapuram district
(Refer Table No. 63).
4.5.3 Wetland Habitats, their use and problems
Mangrove vegetation in Ramanathapuram occurs in small blocks and is represented by
luxuriant Mangrove vegetation and its associates in few places, but in degraded condition
in most of the places. In this district Mangrove communicate with the sea by shallow
passage of water from fresh water. Sources from Kottakarai, Uppar are Vaigai rivers.
Sand bars affect the sea water inflow into the mangrove islets. with between sea &
Tambirabarani estuary. The Mangrove areas 825 ha in 13 bits are at present sea
poromboke and as a part of by the forest department to notify these areas under section
26 of Tamilnadu forest act, 1882.
The district has a long coastline of about 271 kilometres. The coastal area is a sandy
tract with no natural growth. Coastal taluks of Mudukulattur and Ramanathapuram
are on the south above the Gulf of Mannar. The Rameswaram taluk is an island
separated from the mainland by the Pamban passage. The sub-marine extensions in the
east have numerous reefs, shoals and coral islands. Coconut palms and fruit trees
make up all the cultivation. Tiruvadanai is another coastal taluk, which is in the
northern parts of the district. All along the sea coast we can find thorny Prosopis and
Palm trees. The coastal forests serve to control the drifting sands. There are 16 other
islands, besides Rameswaram, the important being Kurusadi, Muyal and Nallathanni
Thivuvaigai (Refer Table No. 64).
4.5.4 Potential Hot Spots along the coast
The 11 coral islands available as potential hot spots along the east coast of Gulf of
Mannar. The present status of the area is Marine National park in the district (Refer
Table No. 65).

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Chapter

5
5.0 Environmental Institutions

5.1 Environmental Education and Research Institutions

There has been no Environmental Education and Research Institution in the district.
(Refer Table No. 66).

5.2 Environmental NGOs

There has been three NGOs dealing with Environmental related issues in the district.
the area of the operation of Ramanathapuram district. There have been activities
under taken of Education, Women and child welfare, public health, Women
development, Environmental awareness in the district. (Refer Table No. 67).

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Chapter

6
6.0 Summary of Observations

The key observations of the Environmental Profile of Ramanathapuram District are

briefed below:
Demographic details
1) During the period of 1981-91, there has been an increase in the growth rate of
population at about 1.49% per annum.
2) It is interesting and encouraging to note that the percentage of female literacy level
has been significantly increased for the past 15 years.
Land Resources
1. 53.68% of the land area in Ramanathapuram District is utilised for cultivation. Hence
1.31% of the land area remain as cultivatable wasteland.
2. The utilisation of chemical fertilisers and bio-fertilisers in the district is high.
3. Typic Chromusterts (0.60%), Vertic Heplustalfs (0.58%) and other types are the soil
types of Ramanathapuram District.
Forest resources
1. The Forest area in Ramanathapuram district is about only 1.30%. Apart from Reserve
Forests, Reserve Lands and Unclassified Forests, there are 5 scrub forests under
green cover classification. The man made forest plantations have been restricted to
the existing forest area in the district. There are few Bird Sanctuaries and a Marine
National Park in the district.
2. The main sources of irrigation of the district happen to be tanks and wells. Only
4.87% of the total cropped areas is irrigated by these sources.
Tourism
1. There have been 11 tourist places in the district. Domestic tourist arrivals have had
fluctuations.
2. The fishing potential area in the district is mainly the coastal line. The fish
production both in quantity has increased for the past 6 years. The inland fish
production and seed production have fluctuations. But coastal/marine fish
production has steadily increased from 1991-92 to 1995-96.
Urbanisation
1. There has been a marginal improvement in the power generation sector. The
demand for electricity has not met, owing to the steady population growth and
higher rate of consumption. Non conventional and renewable energy source of
utilisation is not very much identified.
2. Urbanisation process in Ramanathapuram district has been taking place at a higher
rate. However, certain essential needs of urban areas like drinking water, electricity,
public convenience, drainage, approach roads and health centre have not been
increased keeping the pace with the process of urbanisation.
3. Urban services like drinking water and solid waste management in the district is not
promising.

Ramanathapuram District Environment Profile – Final Report 24

AIMS Research, Chennai - 600 018. Directorate of Environment, GTN

Transportation
1. There has been an increase in the use of two, three and four wheeler vehicles in the
district.
Industrial Development
1. The Red, Orange and Green categories of hazardous Industries are identified by
TNPCB. Most of the Red category industries are very hazardous in nature. There are
only a very few red category industries in Ramanathapuram district.
Environment institutions
1. There has been no environmental Research institute in the district of
Ramanathapuram.
2. Environmental NGOs may be involved in protecting environmental of the district for
which action plans for better environment shall be made with NGOs participation.
3. Participative planning for Environment Management, Creation of a Management
Information System, Environment Management Training to officers of the stake-
holding government departments would go a long way in the environment planning
efforts of the Directorate of Environment, Government of Tamil Nadu in fulfilling its
corporate objectives.

Ramanathapuram District Environment Profile – Final Report 25